Boston’s music scene has often been overshadowed by what’s happening just a few hours away in New York, but there’s no doubt that this college town is one of the great rock ‘n’ roll cities in the world. Deep-rooted in the folk scene of the ‘60s, Boston’s transformation into a popular music powerhouse came in the 1970s. Bands as diverse and talented as Aerosmith, Boston and The Modern Lovers came out of this period. Venues like The Rathskeller became important live music hubs for New England, serving as launching pads for many Bostonian acts. The city was instrumental in the development of sub-genres, like hardcore punk and ska. Boston’s music scene profits from college students who serve as the lifeblood of many vibrant music scenes.